The Bowling Match

About This Movie

So, 'The Bowling Match' from 1913 is a delightful little comedy that really shows off some clever practical effects for its time. It features two characters, Sauer and Kraut, engaging in a bowling contest that's anything but standard; the use of an electric magnet to manipulate the balls and pins adds a whimsical touch that really makes the whole scene pop. The pacing is light and breezy, and you can feel the playful atmosphere throughout. The roughhouse finish with Ford and Mabel adds a nice touch of chaos, which you can't help but chuckle at. It’s not groundbreaking, but there's a charming simplicity that makes it easy to appreciate, especially for fans of early cinema.

This film is a fascinating piece of early cinema, representing a unique blend of comedy and innovative practical effects. While not exceedingly rare, it tends to attract a niche audience among collectors due to its historical context and the novelty of its concept. Versions on 16mm and 8mm can be found, but good quality prints are becoming harder to source, which adds to its allure for dedicated collectors.